The Christian (As Seen in Philemon)

  [277 words] The letter to Philemon is much more than a personal letter from Paul to his friend about the runaway named Onesimus. It is a message from God to each one of us. It is a message about what God expects to see in the lives of those who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ. The Lord expects to see His children: Refreshing Others (v.7, 20). We can be a refreshing joy or an exhausting drain on others. Being helpful and considerate of the needs and feelings of others will go a long way. Embracing Divine Commands in the Spirit of Love (v.8-9, 14). Paul did not want Philemon to engage in the right action with the wrong heart. Remaining Open to the Providence of God (v.15). Perhaps this was God’s plan all along! Treating Others with Respect as Equals (v.12, 17). The disciple of Jesus will…